Deadline: Tue, 10/24/2023 - 12:00pm Employer: Indiana DNR Job Field: Forestry Wildlife Other Job Type: Full Time Location: Indiana Location Detail: West Lafayette Job Description: Wildlife Health Research and Conservation: • Conduct statewide field surveys and research to study the prevalence, distribution, and impact of infectious diseases in wildlife populations. • Monitor and track disease outbreaks among wildlife species to identify trends and potential risk factors. • Collaborate with wildlife biologists and veterinarians to gather relevant data on wildlife health. • Investigate the transmission pathways of wildlife diseases, including zoonotic diseases that can affect human populations. • Study the ecology of pathogens in wildlife, including reservoir species and vectors. • Prepare documents to obtain state and federal grant funds for projects that contribute to fish & wildlife health in Indiana. Data Collection and Analysis: • Utilize various techniques, such as diverse methods of biological tissue sampling, molecular analyses, and diagnostic tests, to collect and analyze wildlife disease data. • Implement statistical and modeling approaches to understand disease dynamics and assess the impact on wildlife populations. • GIS data analyses (ArcPro or qGIS), proficient with python and R, ecological modelling (e.g., Lotka–Volterra, island biogeography), technical writing skills Environmental and Ecological Assessments: • Investigate the influence of environmental and ecological factors on disease prevalence and transmission in wildlife populations. • Study how habitat degradation, climate change, and human-wildlife interactions may affect disease dynamics. Policy and Rule Development • Identifies ways to integrate, summarize, and communicate the state of wildlife health to pinpoint emerging policy needs. • Prepare recommendations to introduce or modify Indiana Administrative Code, agency policies, or other legal statutes on all matters pertaining to the management of wildlife diseases in the state. • Preparation of reports delivered to public organizations or government agencies related to wildlife health and one health goals. • Draft correspondence on issues requiring the signature of the Governor, DNR Director, Division Director, Assistant Director of Science and Research, or Wildlife Science Supervisor. One Health Collaboration: • Collaborate with wildlife managers, conservation organizations, public health agencies, and other experts to develop comprehensive disease management and prevention plans. • Communicate research findings and provide recommendations to stakeholders and policymakers. Education and Outreach: • Engage in public outreach and education to raise awareness of wildlife diseases and their potential impacts on human health and ecosystems. • Contribute to educational programs and materials related to wildlife health and disease prevention. Publication and Presentation: • Prepare scientific papers for publication in peer-reviewed journals and present research findings at conferences and workshops. • Review technical journals and attend professional meetings regarding current issues related to fish and wildlife health in conservation and management. Qualifications: • A Ph.D. in Ecology, Wildlife Biology, Veterinary Science, or a related field with a focus on wildlife disease ecology (preferred) OR master’s degree (with four years of demonstrated experience with disease ecology) What You’ll Need for Success: • Strong background in wildlife disease research, data analysis, and statistical modeling. • Knowledge of disease and health issues affecting Indiana fish & wildlife. • Knowledge of wildlife ecology, population dynamics, and conservation biology. • Experience in fieldwork and data collection in various wildlife habitats. • Familiarity with molecular techniques and diagnostic tools for wildlife disease analysis. • Excellent communication skills to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and engage with diverse stakeholders. • Ability to present complex scientific information to both technical and non-technical audiences. • Demonstrated passion for wildlife conservation and public health. • Strong written/verbal communication skills. • Time management, flexibility (can adapt priorities as needed to achieve agency goals). • Ability to work well in an independent and team setting. • Analytical thinking (can quickly assess conditions and develop the best solutions). • Ability to maintain written records for research and maintenance of assets and inventories. • Willingness to engage with and support strategic plans and goals for both the Department and the Division. • Working knowledge of basic first aid techniques. Salary: $59,800, commensurate with experience How to Apply: Email the Indiana Fish & Wildlife Health Program Supervisor to learn how to apply to this exciting opportunity: Michelle Benavidez Westrich, MBenavidezWestrich@dnr.IN.gov
